Sardinia’s Scenic Drives: A Road-Tripper’s Guide to the Island’s Best Views
Embark on a journey through Sardinia’s most scenic drives, where each turn reveals a new vista, a hidden gem, or a historical marvel. This guide will take you through specific, breathtaking spots you can witness along these routes, ensuring your drive is anything but ordinary.
1. Santa Teresa di Gallura to Castelsardo and Costa Paradiso
This coastal route is a feast for the eyes. Starting from the charming town of Santa Teresa di Gallura, known for its picturesque beaches like Rena Bianca, the road meanders towards Castelsardo. Along the way, don’t miss the stunning view of the red rocks at Costa Paradiso and the panoramic vistas from Isola Rossa, a small village famous for its unique red rocks and sandy beaches. As you approach Castelsardo, the majestic sight of the medieval Doria Castle, perched high above the town, is a sight to behold.
2. Strada Costiera Alghero – Bosa
Connecting Alghero and Bosa, this drive offers a mix of cultural and natural beauty. In Alghero, known as the Coral Riviera, the Capo Caccia cliffs with the Neptune’s Grotto are a must-see. As you drive towards Bosa, the road hugs the coastline, offering views of the turquoise sea and rugged cliffs. Bosa itself, with its colorful houses and the Malaspina Castle, provides a picturesque end to this scenic route. It’s one of the few towns in Sardinia crossed by a river.
3. Panoramic Road Cagliari – Villasimius
Departing from Cagliari, this route takes you through some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Sardinia. Key highlights include the Poetto Beach, a favorite among locals, and the Molentargius-Saline Regional Park, where you can spot flamingos. The drive culminates in Villasimius, home to some of the island’s most stunning beaches, such as Porto Giunco with its crystal-clear waters and the Notteri Pond.
4. Fontanamare – Nebida
This less-traveled road is known for its rugged beauty. The highlight of this route is undoubtedly the Pan di Zucchero, a massive sea stack near Nebida. The coastline here is dramatic, with cliffs plunging into the sea, offering spectacular views, especially at sunset.
5. SS125 – Vecchia Orientale Sarda
Traversing the island’s interior, the SS125 offers a different perspective of Sardinia. Key spots include the Gennargentu National Park, offering stunning mountainous landscapes, and the Gorropu Canyon, one of Europe’s deepest canyons. This route is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
6. Costa Verde
The Costa Verde stretch is known for its wild, unspoiled nature. The Piscinas Beach with its towering sand dunes is a must-visit. The abandoned mining village of Ingurtosu and the ghost town of Montevecchio offer a glimpse into Sardinia’s mining past, adding a historical dimension to your drive.
Most important: safety!
As you embark on the breathtaking routes of Sardinia, it’s crucial to remember the importance of caution and safety. Many of these roads are narrow and winding, with limited signage, reflecting the island’s rustic charm.
It’s essential to respect the traffic signs and proceed at a moderate speed.
The beauty of Sardinia’s landscapes is best enjoyed when you drive responsibly, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the road.
